Maskey pays tribute to those forced to mourn loved ones ‘in most difficult circumstances’

A minute of silence was observed in the chamber in their honour, with the First and Deputy First Ministers among those present.

Mr Maskey (who acts as neutral party when in the speaker’s role, as opposed to acting as a Sinn Fein MLA) ushered in the moment of silence by saying:

“We gather today, after a year in which our whole community has been through the most difficult of times, and in which we have been inspired by the tremendous efforts of those working on the front line, especially those in the health and social care sectors.

“However, we particularly remember all of those who have lost their lives during the Covid-19 pandemic, and those who have mourned them in the most difficult of circumstances.”

Arlene Foster said on Twitter: “We reflect on those we’ve lost. We think of those who grieve. We thank all those who worked to keep us safe. We look forward with hope.”

Alliance leader Naomi Long meanwhile said: “I feel a particular sadness for those who have died, whether of Covid or other causes, and were unable in many cases to say goodbye to their family or friends, and for those unable to bid farewell to loved ones how they would normally...

“As the vaccine roll-out continues, the best way we can all pay tribute to those who have lost their lives is following the health advice – washing your hands, wearing face masks when required and maintaining social distancing – to help us emerge from the worst of this pandemic and return to normal life.”

Looking back on Covid-19’s arrival:

February 2020: It is a matter of when, not if, coronavirus appears in NI: officials

March 2020: Half the Northern Irish population getting Covid-19 ‘is not a wild guess’ says viral expert doctor

December 2020: Counting cost of Covid curbs: 30,000 NI job losses by end of 2020 predicts top economist

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